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Labor Day Weekend 2019

Chalk the Block: August 2-4, 2019

Need a summer boredom buster for your family before the back-to-school crunch begins? We've got a weekend jammed packed with everything from live music, a Farmers Market and Antiques on the Bluff to Lighthouse open hours, Horse-Drawn Trolley rides and chalk masterpieces. Head to St. Joseph August 2-4 for the 23rd Annual Chalk the Block!

Midsummer Classic Weekend: July 18-21, 2019

Fourth of July Weekend in Michigan's Great Southwest July 3-7, 2019

We've got your lineup for five whole days of fun, celebrating the Fourth of July here in Michigan's Great Southwest! From fireworks to antique treasure hunts, farmers markets and live music read on to see what's happening this weekend!

BBQ, Blues & Bluegrass - Weekend Line Up

Get ready for a weekend jam packed with fun in Michigan's Great Southwest! This Saturday the 7th Annual BBQ, Blues & Bluegrass is a day filled with live music, craft beer, regional wines and local tastes! But that's not the only thing going on - there's a little something for everyone from Run/Walk 5K to Storytimes, a Rummage Sale, Sidewalk Sales, Happy Hours, Pizza & Paint Workshop and more!

Spring in Michigan's Great Southwest: May 2-5, 2019

Explore Michigan's Great Southwest for a weekend of Spring fun! Featuring everything from Antiques on the Bluff, the Blossomtime Festival Grand Floral Parade, a Sangria Party, Run for the Buds 5K and more! Read on for a list of happenings May 2-5, 2019!

Spring Ahead Weekend: March 1-3, 2019

Shake off those winter blues during the Spring Ahead Weekend in Michigan's Great Southwest! Featuring everything from March Mannequins to beer and Girl Scout cookie pairings, to LEGO builds, live music and more! Check out all the awesome weekend activities happening March 1-3, 2019!

A Weekend of Frozen Fun: February 1-3, 2019

Get ready for some frosty fun in St. Joseph! The 15th Annual Magical Ice Fest looks to be bigger and better than ever and packed with family fun, ice competitions and even some frozen fish. The event, which runs from February 1st through February 3rd, is a great way to explore this charming lakeside and celebrate the winter season.

Whether you're a first timer or a frequent ice fest attendee, check out this guide for everything you need to know!

Winter Warm Up: January 24-27, 2019

The winter doesn't slow things down in Michigan's Great Southwest! The last weekend in January brings a couple's sushi class, chili tour, winter beer fest, creative art workshops, team trivia, live music and so much more! Check out all of the awesome winter activities starting Thursday, January 24 through Sunday, January 27.

12 Days of Shopping: Holiday Decorations

Tis' the season for holiday shopping in Michigan's Great Southwest and we're here to help you make the most of it! Everything from perfect gifts and festive home decor to holiday markets, seasonal brews, delectable wine, winter activities and more. We've got you covered!

We love decorating for the holidays! This year, we reached out to local stores to see what must-have items were in stock this season. Keep reading to see what holiday decor items they suggested would make festive additions to your home as well as great gifts!

12 Days of Shopping: Experience for Foodies

Tis' the season for holiday shopping in Michigan's Great Southwest and we're here to help you make the most of it! Everything from perfect gifts and festive home decor to holiday markets, seasonal brews, delectable wines, winter activities and more. We've got you covered!

Check out some of these delectable recommendations for the foodie in your life! Their taste buds will be sure to thank you...and you may just hooked too!

12 Days of Shopping: Gift Certificates

Tis' the season for holiday shopping in Michigan's Great Southwest and we're here to help you make the most of it! Everything from perfect gifts and festive home decor to holiday markets, seasonal brews, delectable wines, winter activities and more! We've got you covered!

We love gift certificates! It's an awesome way to give a gift you know they'll enjoy. We've rounded up lots of awesome specials for gift certificates in Michigan's Great Southwest!

12 Days of Shopping: Gifts for the Outdoorsy

Tis' the season for holiday shopping in Michigan's Great Southwest and we're here to help you make the most of it! Everything from perfect gifts and festive home decor to holidays markets, seasonal brews, delectable wines, winter activities and more. We've got you covered!

Give the gift of the great outdoors! We rounded up some year-round fun for the outdoorsy people in your life. Whether they like surfing Lake Michigan or cross-country skiing we've got you a few activities to keep them busy!

12 Days of Shopping: Fashionista Christmas List

Tis' the season for holiday shopping in Michigan's Great Southwest and we're here to help you make the most of it! Everything from perfect gifts and festive home decor to holiday markets, seasonal brews, delectable wines, winter activities and more! We've got you covered!

With help from our local boutiques, we've rounded up some must-have items this holiday season! Read on for unique gift ideas, new party attire, and items to add to your Christmas list!

12 Days of Shopping: Sweet Treats

Tis' the season for holiday shopping in Michigan's Great Southwest and we're here to help you make the most of it! Everything from perfect gifts and festive home decor to holiday markets, seasonal brews, delectable wines, winter activities and more. We've got you covered!

Visions of Southwest Michigan sugarplums are dancing in our head! We searched (trust us it was hard work...) for delicious treats for you to enjoy this holiday season. Perfect for your gathering, gift-giving, or just enjoying a taste of the season.

12 Days of Shopping: Michigan Made

Tis' the season for holiday shopping in Michigan's Great Southwest and we're here to help you make the most of it! Everything from perfect gifts and festive home decor to holiday markets, seasonal brews, delectable wine, winter activities and more. We've got you covered!

We've selected some Michigan made holiday gift ideas for lovers of the mitten state! Share your love for the Great Lakes state this holiday season.

12 Days of Shopping: PAWfect Holiday Gifts

Tis' the season for holiday shopping in Michigan's Great Southwest and we're here to help you make the most of it! Everything from perfect gifts and festive home decor to holiday markets, seasonal brews, delectable wines, winter activities and more. We've got you covered!

We found great gifts celebrating canines! Head over to FuzzyButz Pet Bakery to find the PAWfect gift for the four-legged friend your life.

12 Days of Shopping: Vino for Vacation

Tis' the season for holiday shopping in Michigan's Great Southwest and we're here to help you make the most of it! Everything from perfect gifts and festive home decor to holiday markets, seasonal brews, delectable wines, winter activities and more. We've got you covered!

We've gathered some recommendations from our local wineries for vino sure to please at a party, as a gift, or just enjoying this season!

Where To Find Santa in Michigan's Great Southwest 2018!

Ho ho ho! Santa has arrived in Michigan's Great Southwest! Interested in visiting the man in red? Here's a list of where he can be found until Christmas Day; you can even visit a few times if those wish lists change.

12 Days of Shopping: Holiday Markets

Tis' the season for holiday shopping in Michigan's Great Southwest and we're here to help you make the most of it! Everything from perfect gifts and festive home decor to holiday markets, seasonal brews, delectable wine, winter activities and more. We've got you covered!

We've rounded up some of the upcoming holiday markets to make sure you get the most out of this holiday shopping season! Each location offers unique finds where you'll discover amazing gifts and items that you'll want to keep for yourself.

12 Days of Shopping: Hoppy Holidays

Tis' the season for holiday shopping in Michigan's Great Southwest and we're here to help you make the most of it! Everything from perfect gifts and festvie home decor to holiday markets, seasonal brews, delectable wine, winter activities and more. We've got you covered!

Check out some wintry recommendations from our local brewers, offering an awesome pairiing for your holiday gathering, or unique gift for the microbrewery aficionado in your life.

12 Days of Shopping: Experiences for Families

Tis' the season for holiday shopping in Michigan's Great Southwest and we're here to help you make the most of it! Everything from perfect gifts and festive home decor to holiday markets, seasonal brews, delectable wine, winter activities and more. We've got you covered!

We've rounded up some family friendly locations in Michigan's Great Southwest. Give the gift of family fun and help to create memories that will last a lifetime!

Festive Fun and Holiday Happenings: December 6th-9th, 2018!

It's a weekend of family fun in Michigan's Great Southwest! The first full weekend of December brings lights on the bluff, Santa, holiday windows, Reindeer Rottweilers, holiday shopping, and more! Check out all of the festive family fun and holiday happenings, starting Thursday, December 6th through Sunday, December 9th, 2018!

Halloween Happenings in Southwest Michigan!

Trick-or-Treating happens in the Benton Harbor Arts District and in downtown St. Joseph on Wednesday, October 31st from 4:30-6:00pm! Both locations will come alive with treats and offerings thanks to our generous members, who supply candy for Trick-or-Treaters.

OUR FALL BUCKET LIST

AUTUMN FUN IN MICHIGAN’S GREAT SOUTHWEST

Everyone's favorite fall activities are coming together this weekend in Michigan's Great Southwest. The weekend includes a Fall Fest, Roots & Brews, the City of St. Joseph's Public Art Auction, Sidewalk Sales and more!

Get ready for some frosty fun in St. Joseph! The 14th Annual Magical Ice Festival looks to be bigger and better than ever and packed with family fun, ice competitions and even some frozen fish. The event, which runs from February 2nd though February 4th, is a great way to explore this charming lakeside town and celebrate the winter season.

Whether you’re a first timer or a frequent ice fest attendee, check out this guide for everything you need to know!

Where To Find Santa in Michigan's Great Southwest 2017!

Ho ho ho! Santa has arrived in Michigan's Great Southwest! Interested in visitng the man in red? Here's a list of where he can be found until Christmas Day; you can even visit a few times in those wish lists change.

Family Fun and Holiday Happenings: December 1st-3rd, 2017!

It's a weekend of family fun in Michigan's Great Southwest! The first weekend of December brings lights on bluffs, Santa, mannequins, cookies, and more! Check out all of the family holiday happenings, starting Friday, December 1st through Sunday, December 3rd, 2017!

Halloween Happenings in Southwest Michigan

Trick-or-Treating happens in the Benton Harbor Arts District and in downtown St. Joseph on Tuesday, October 31st from 4:30-6:00pm! Both locations will come alive with treats and offerings thanks to our generous members, who supply candy for Trick-or-Treaters. We're excited to see the costumes; you can also check out the Benton Harbor Marching Band in the Arts District event!

Labor Day Weekend Plans: Soaking Up Summer

Labor Day Weekend has come to Michigan's Great Southwest! Here's your full guide of fun to be had from Thursday, August 31st through Monday, September 4th, from lakefront fun to historical tours to awesome parties.

Summer in the Vineyards

Our beautiful vineyards are a hallmark of the Southwest Michigan landscape. Dr. Dave Miller, owner and winemaker at White Pine Winery and professor of viticulture at MSU, shares about the importance of the summer process for fall harvest.

Spring has bloomed in Southwest Michigan! In celebration, I ventured to Fernwood Botanical Garden with Clementine for our first exploration of the season. Sunday, April 23rd was perfect; we had weather in the mid sixties, and I had a 3 year old that was ready to be outside.

The EGG-cellent List of Easter Fun!

Trail Ready with Wanderlust Outfitters

With spring officially sprung, and warmer weather right around the corner, you’ll want to be trail ready when that first short-sleeves day comes goading you to play hooky. Sarett Nature Center and its extensive trail system has some great events slated this month that can help you ease in to the outdoors and knock any hibernation hangover clean out of your system. Wanderlust Outfitters, 120 State St. in downtown St. Joseph, has the outdoor apparel and outdoor gear you’ll need to be trail ready this season.

Leprechaun Flavor Finder: St. Patrick's Day Eats!

St. Patrick’s Day means corned beef and soda bread…and more! We’ve got your list of where to get your fill of Irish-style fare this weekend in Michigan’s Great Southwest. From familiar boiled dinners to seasonal twists on pizza, here’s your leprechaun flavor finder!

L to RPastrami Reuben at the Public HouseReuben Pizza at the LiveryCorned Beef & Cabbage at bread+bar

The Luck O' The Southwest: St. Patrick's Day Fun!

It’s almost St. Patrick’s Day, and we’ve got lots of ways for you to celebrate shamrocks Southwest Michigan! Whether you're chasing the gold at the end of the rainbow or just enjoy wearing some green, here's a lineup of fun.

I am often asked how grapevines respond to winter weather. Especially given the crazy weather we’ve had the last couple of winters. In summer, it’s obvious if vines are stressed from drought or nutrient deficiencies. But in winter it’s not so obvious. So how do perennial plants like trees and grapevines respond to winter weather?

12 Days of Shopping: Vino for Vacation!

It’s the season for gatherings and celebration, and nothing improves that like wine! Here’s some recommendations from our local wineries for vino sure to please at a party, as a gift, or just enjoying this season!

12 Days of Shopping: Southwest Michigan Brews for Hoppy Holidays

We love shopping local this season, and there’s nothing like the gift of beer! Check out some wintery recommendations from our local brewers, offering an awesome paring for your holiday gathering, or unique gift for the microbrewery aficionado in your life.

And, if a tasty Southwest Michigan brew just isn’t enough, we’ve got a great recipe from Round Barn for a beer-y dessert sure to float your boat!

12 Days of Shopping: More Bang for Your Buck with Gift Certificates!

With just 10 days of shopping left until Christmas, it's time to start checking off your list!

We love gift certificates! It's an awesome way to give a gift you know they'll enjoy. We've rounded up lots of awesome specials for gift certificates in Southwest Michigan, so you can give a little more, or keep a little too (we won't tell!).

12 Days of Shopping: Wear Your Mitten On Your Sleeve at PurelyMichigan

With just 11 days of shopping left until Christmas, it's time to see what some of our awesome local retailers have in store!

Whether you're a resident of the Great Lakes State or just a fan, PurelyMichigan has the perfect gifts for the person who wants to wear their Michigan pride. From mittens (of course) to shirts to jewelry, here's some ways for you to wear your Michigan love year-round.

12 Days of Shopping: Gifts for Cat Lovers at State Street Stuff

With just 12 days left of shopping until Christmas, it's time to see what some of our awesome local retailers have for those last-minute or hard to find gifts.

For the cat lady (or man) in your life, head over to State Street Stuff. The downtown St. Joseph store is filled to the brim with funky, whimsical, awesome and yummy stuff year-round. We found great gifts celebrating felines, "puurfect" for the cat lovers in your life. There's some creative ideas here...

Where To Find Santa in Michigan's Great Southwest!

Ho ho ho! Santa has arrived in Michigan’s Great Southwest! Interested in visiting the man in red? Here’s a list of where he can be found until Christmas Day; you can even visit a few times if those wish lists change.

Family Fun and Holiday Happenings: December 2nd-4th, 2016!

It’s a weekend of family fun in Michigan’s Great Southwest! The first weekend of December brings lights on bluffs and lights on trains, Santa in many, many places, mannequins, and music. Check out all the family holiday happenings, starting Friday, December 2nd through Sunday, December 4th, 2016!

Bringing It Home: North Pier Brewing Company

There’s a pull to Southwest Michigan that residents can’t deny. It’s the lake, the family, the community. For Jay Fettig, a St. Joseph native, it was also the perfect place to shape North Pier Brewing Company.

Festive Four-Legged Fun!

Happy Collie-days! For us, the upcoming season means celebrating family (including Fido). Michigan’s Great Southwest has awesome holiday happenings coming soon, for two and four legs. As we near the Christmas season, here’s a few ways to celebrate with and for your furry friends!

Fall Fashion: Cool Looks at Grins of St. Joseph

It's a warm November, and we're excited to extend the fall season! Check out what Wendy Hoffman from Grins of St. Joseph has for fall fashion tips, and style guides for cool weather!

Are you looking for a mid priced, one of a kind outfit? Great jewelry? Men’s and Women’s shoes? Stop into Grins Boutique and Sign Gallery at 218 State Street across from Kilwins. The street for downtown St. Joe shopping.

Benton Harbor Arts District: Building Community and Finding Home

Superman Jax (Clementine Carragher) outside the OutCenter

I first visited the Arts District in Benton Harbor on a vacation to find a brewery in a barn. Turns out it was the Livery, and my description was a little off, but the beer was tasty! I was instantly intrigued by the area, taken in by the creative energy. The buildings are sparse, and the spaces between teem with a gritty originality that can only be fostered by such an environment. I loved the vibe, and took that impression back to Maine with me each time I left.

Tricks, Treats and Fun: 5 Games for Halloween

Julie Smiy is a wedding and party coordinator based in Southwest Michigan, pulling in her past creative experiences to facilitate unique celebrations. In today’s blog post, she shares some awesome Halloween party game ideas…for kids and grownups!

Fall Fashion at DK Boutique

This fall, DK Boutique turns 15! The destination for brands like Alex & Ani, Pandora, and more has been in the St. Joseph community since 2001. Located on State Street, DK Boutique is a year-round hotspot for women’s fashion. For fall this year, Manager Jamie Schultz shared some awesome autumn looks!

The Find: Who Picks for Blue Moon Vintage Market

When Jen and Vicki Kerr founded Blue Moon Vintage Market in Three Oaks, Michigan, they came armed with an eye for picks and an ear for history. There’s an inherit storytelling that comes with picking, as items from history become relevant again. From salvaged windmills to produce tables, the pieces at Blue Moon Vintage Market arrive with a story.

Jen and Vicki Kerr with one of Danielle Colby's picks; these are film reels from a drive-in theater!

Three Oaks Pickers: The Story of Blue Moon Vintage Market

What is a “picker”?

Looking through an old barn of rusty equipment and faded furniture, a “picker” is the one who climbs in, investigates, and leaves with the treasure. It’s the archaeologist before the antique store; it’s someone who rolls up their sleeves and jumps in get to the find.

Mom and daughter duo Vicki and Jen Kerr chase these finds together, going all-in to this modern day treasure hunt.

Halloween Picks at Blue Moon Vintage Market

Fall is my favorite time of year, and Halloween is the crown jewel of the season. Throughout October, orange and black begin cloak, the sun hangs low in the sky, and pumpkin faces celebrate the darkening of the year. As the nights get longer and the wind howls a little louder, it’s easy to embrace the weird that comes with the season.

Blue Moon Vintage Market in Three Oaks, Michigan, is an awesome destination for some vintage and one-of-a-kind Halloween. This once-a-month shopping destination is curated by mother/daughter duo Vicki and Jen Kerr (you can find their story here), and offers their own picks as well as outside vendors’. Danielle Colby (of “American Pickers” fame) sells some of her collection here, and her eye for oddities and darker fun furnished some serious Halloween inspiration.

Blue Moon Vintage Market will be open Friday, October 21st through Sunday, October 23rd…and I don’t think any of these items will last! Here's just a few of the picks I found, from animal purses to oversized heads.

What Is A Float Pod?

Revive Spa hosts a wide variety of services, including some unique to the area (and rare throughout the country!). Today, Nancy Maryniak, owner of Revive, shares more about the Float Pod at her establishment in downtown St. Joseph.

So what is a "float pod"?

Float Pod (aka floatation tank, sensory deprivation tank or isolation tank): A tank with 14” of water at 95 degrees with 1000 lbs of Medical Grade Epson Salt dissolved in it to make a person effortlessly float. The skin-temperature water makes it imperceptible; the tank is soundproof and pitch black, creating a place for our bodies to be free from gravity and all stimulation from the outside world.

Fall Fashion: Local Looks from Lana's

It’s sweater weather! As fall sweeps through southwest Michigan, we’re ready for a wardrobe overhaul, whether it's back-to-school or apple picking. Lana’s Boutique picked some of their fall favorites to share with us; check out what this local shopping destination has in store for the chilly days and nights ahead!

Interested in seeing more looks like this in person? Lana's Boutique will be modeling at the St. Joseph Papa Vino's Fall Fashion Show on October 5th! You can find more details here.

Halloween Happenings in Michigan's Great Southwest

October is upon us, leaves are in the air, and we’re ready for Halloween fun! Check out our guide for all things Halloween, with trick-or-treating, family festivals, fun for kids, theater and tours, and somethings for the grownup ghouls, too!

TRICK-OR-TREATING(and Trunk-or-Treat)

We’re ready for a spooktacular trick-or-treat in the Benton Harbor Arts District on Halloween! On Monday, October 31st, little goblins and ghouls can visit galleries, studios, restaurants and shops for treats. The event, generously sponsored by Holt Bosse, runs from 4:30-6:00pm. You can find more information here; get there early to claim your bag!

Downtown St. Joseph offers trick-or-treating on Halloween, too. From 4:30-6:00 (just before the city trick or treat!) downtown merchants will be ready to hand out treats…and maybe a few tricks!

3 Reasons To Love Lake Michigan Beaches in the Fall

Lake Michigan beaches are popular destinations for summer travelers; Silver Beach, Tiscornia and Rocky Gap are packed as soon as school gets out in June straight through Labor Day. Days spent splashing in the lake and relaxing in the soft sand are hallmark of summer, but we don’t think the beach fun should end there. We’re big fans of this shoulder season on the shores of Lake Michigan; here’s three reasons we love the beach in the fall!

Macs with Mandy: Michigan Flavors and French Desserts

Our Southwest Michigan Summer

We're back to school, and the air feels like fall is nearby. From beach days to wineries to music to Pokemon, the summer of 2016 was the best one yet! Here's some of our favorite snapshots of summer from our friends on Instagram (thanks for the tag!).

Labor Day Weekend in Michigan's Great Southwest

Labor Day Weekend is almost here! The close of summer is upon us, and we're celebrating the awesome summer that was, and the fall ahead! Here's what's happening for the long weekend in Michigan's Great Southwest!

(L to R) Watermark Brewing in Stevensville; Lake Bluff Craft Fair; music in the vineyard at Round Barn Winery

10 Things Under $5 To Do With Kids In Michigan's Great Southwest

Silver Beach is an awesome destination for kids in the summer, but what about when it starts to cool? Just in time for Labor Day, we've got a list of 10 things to do with kids in Michigan's Great Southwest. All activities are under $5, so you won't break the bank for fun!

Ava and Clementine at the Silver Beach Carousel; lots of fun and games off the carousel, too!

Chalk the Block: Next Generation

For the 20th Annual Chalk the Block, a chalk workshop was offered by Nate Baranowski to inspire the next generation of chalk artists. Offering in the Box Factory for the Arts on Friday night, this workshop was filled, and created more eager chalk artists for our growing festival (hopefully!). Even beyond the workshop, young artists were more engaged than ever in Chalk the Block. Here's a look at a family piece, and more!

Beth Mandarino (center) has participated in Chalk the Block for a few years. This year, her grandsons came to the Chalk Workshop on Friday alongside her, and used their skills to help Beth create her piece!

Chalk The Block: 3-D Chalk by Nate Baranowski

Not all chalk pieces are created to be seen from high above and remain untouched. For the 20th anniversary of Chalk the Block in downtown St. Joseph, Nate Baranowski created a piece to be viewed from a very particular angle, and he invited viewers to lie, sit, and interact with the piece. Sponsored by Southwestern Michigan College, Nate spent hours between Saturday, August 6th and Sunday, August 7th filling the corner of Broad Street with chalk. If you wanted to get an awesome picture of yourself at Chalk the Block, this was the place to be…

Chalk The Block: Chalk In Progress

Chalk festivals have a fleeting nature; the pieces are created, viewed and swept away in short window of time. The community comes together in that brief interlude, celebrating the art, the people, and the place. This past weekend was the 20th annual festival in downtown St. Joseph, and chalk enthusiasts flocked to a piece of road above the bluff to experience just that.

chalking in progress at the 20th Annual Chalk The Blockphoto by Joshua Nowicki

Mike Yore Memorial Car Show

The Mike Yore Memorial Car Show was Friday, July 15th. Awesome cars from the early days of automobiles lined up on Lake Boulevard for a stroll down memory lane...as well as creating some pretty serious car envy! Take a look at some of the best finds of the night, with photos by St. Joseph Today Intern Emily Schrock.

The Mike Yore Memorial Car Show is an annual event; hope to see you in 2017, too!

Wednesday Round Up: Summer Looks from Lana's

Lana’s Boutique is a shopping destination for Michigan’s Great Southwest. For this Wednesday’s Round Up, staff at the St. Joseph boutique shared some of their favorite summer looks, perfect for a day right off Silver Beach.

Member Monday: Friends By Design

The name “Friends by Design” has stuck with Susan Mason for 20 years. Strong friendships between women bloom with shared appreciation of clothes, accessories, and other expressions of personal style, so when Susan entered the retail world in early 2014 she aimed to create a place where these bonds could be cultivated and flourish. Friends by Design opened in March 2015, true to Susan’s long-term vision.

Standing at the corner of Broad and State St., the Hot Dog Kart is a destination for residents and visitors, with a hotly anticipated arrival each season. They are famous for their Chicago-style hot dogs, loaded with the traditional toppings. For this Wednesday’s Round-Up, let’s talk Chicago-style hot dog toppings (as well as a great family business!).

So what is a Chicago-style hot dog? It's a combination of tangy, sour, sweet, and seems strange at first glance. Here’s the building blocks:

Member Monday: Moxie's Boutique

'Tis the season for red, white and blue! This Monday, we're featuring Moxie's Boutique...a local family business dedicated to stocking lots of American-made products.

Seasonal window at Moxie's Boutique in downtown St. Joseph, Michigan

Moxie’s Boutique is celebrating 10 years on State Street in St. Joseph! Founded by Monica Bolin after a corporate career, the red and black striped boutique stands at the corner of State and Pleasant, offering residents and locals a unique, full-service shopping experience.

Lazy Ballerina Winery: 1 Year in Downtown St. Joe!

Lazy Ballerina Winery sits on State St. in downtown St. Joseph. The huge windows in the front give a clear view to a pink bar with tutu barstools, a leather couch and sleek chairs. It’s pretty, but packs a punch with their wine, food, and extremely popular events. In March, I spent the afternoon with Melanie and Lauren, the co-owners of and the creative genius behind Lazy Ballerina Winery. On June 25th, they celebrated their first anniversary in downtown St. Joseph!

I read a blog I wrote about this time in 2014 just after some of the coldest weather we’ve had in decades. I knew we were in for little to no crop on Vitis vinifera grapevines that year and I was right. I had no idea that we would have similar weather again in 2015 with a similar result – little to no crop on Vitis vinifera varieties (e.g. Chardonnay, Riesling, Cabernet franc, Merlot). Having two years in a row with little to no crop on those vines is unprecedented in Michigan.

U-Pick Fruit in Michigan's Great Southwest

Michigan’s Great Southwest is known for beaches, rolling vineyards, fragrant orchards, and some of the best fruit in the country.

Ripe and ready peach from the 2015 season at Nye's Apple Barn

“The Fruit Belt” hugs the shoreline, offering the perfect soil and delayed frost for a wide variety of fruit. One of our favorite summer activities is picking the local produce ourselves; here’s our u-pick plan for the first part of summer!

Lake Michigan Catholic School's Spring Concert on the Bluff

Outdoor music in St. Joseph is a hallmark of summer! At the John E.N. Howard Bandshell, Wednesday noon and Friday night concerts are tradition. This year, we welcomed some young musicians to kick off the summer season!

On May 23rd, Lake Michigan Catholic Schools presented their annual spring concert in a new venue- the John E.N. Howard Bandshell! The Monday night concert packed the bandshell with excited students, proud families, and community members. It was a perfect early summer night, and offered a chance for the community to support the young musicians in the area.

Memorial Day Weekend: What's Happening

On Wednesdays, we "round up" some of our favorite things in Michigan's Great Southwest. This week, we're making plans for Memorial Day Weekend!

Memorial Day Weekend is upon us! This is the official summer start date for a lot of businesses in Michigan’s Great Southwest, and we’re excited about what’s happening. Read on for some suggestions about how you can kick off summer, day-by-day!

2015 Memorial Day parade- photo by Joshua Nowicki

On Friday, the Memorial Day Parade goes down Lake Boulevard, starting at 12:00pm. Line up on either side of the street to celebrate local veterans, as well as hear the bands.

4th Annual BBQ, Blues and Bluegrass

Saturday, May 21st was the 4th Annual BBQ, Blues and Bluegrass Festival hosted by St. Joseph Today. It was a perfect early summer day, with lots of great music and awesome bbq. Families and fans poured into Whirlpool Centennial Park below the bluff from 12:00pm-8:00pm, unofficially kicking off the summer season in St. Joseph. We can keep writing, but figured pictures would better show you the incredible day in Michigan's Great Southwest!

The Lakehouse Restaurant sits high on the bluff overlooking Lake Michigan. Just a few minutes outside of downtown St. Joseph, the restaurant’s patio stretches towards the sunset. Chicago can even be spotted on a good night!

Wednesday Round Up: Stand Mixers on Parade

On Wednesdays, we "round up" some of our favorite things in Michigan's Great Southwest. This week, we're sharing where you can find some creative KitchenAid!

The Senior PGA Tournament is coming to Harbor Shores in Benton Harbor! This is an internationally recognized golf tournament that brings a lot of traffic to our area. It’s sponsored by KitchenAid, so to get the community involved, KitchenAid hosts “Stand Mixers on Parade”!

Stand Mixers on Parade brings the famous KitchenAid Mixers to storefronts, schools and businesses in Michigan’s Great Southwest, donating them to charity at the end of the tournament. In early March, 30 of our members claimed the mixers. They got creative with paint, fillings, shellac, and more.

Driving into our corner of Southwest Michigan, you’ll find apple orchards, grape vineyards, and fields of strawberries. Come spring, the blossoms begin to show, and the landscape is filled with tiny dots of white and pink. It’s a beautiful sight for residents, and marks the beginning of a season that the area’s economy depends on. It’s also a sight that has attracted tourists for years, as they visited the “Fruit Belt”. While the blooms may come slowly at first, there is a definite start to the season. That’s the first weekend of May, when the Blossomtime Festival and Parade happens!

Wednesday Round Up: Instagrams to Follow

Instagram has been taking off all over the world, and Michigan's Great Soutwest is no exception! We've rounded up a few of our favorite accounts for you to follow, and see what's happening through local eyes.

Wednesday Round Up: Spring Wine Part 3

April is Michigan Wine Month! Local wineries recommended spring wines to us; we shared the flavor profiles the first week, then learned more about the winemakers and names last week. This week, we’re pairing food with the wine!

The landscape in Michigan’s Great Southwest is more than just beautiful beaches. Heading north on Red Arrow Highway, you’ll find the Sarett Nature Center. Here in the Paw Paw River valley, there’s trails to discover, incredible birdwatching, and lots of programs about forest and river life.

Summer Recipes from The Olive Cart

Michigan's Great Southwest is rapidly transforming into a culinary destination. We've got some unique stores, and the Olive Cart is one of the anchors!

From left to right: Olive Cart staff (St. Joseph Location) / Bottled options at the Olive Cart /Inside the St. Joseph tasting room

As spring turns into summer, and the temperatures warm, Olive Cart starts looking for fresh and exciting ways to delight your taste buds. CeCe Woodward, an Olive Cart store manager, knows her way around the store's products! She shared some of their favorite summertime recipes. They are:

Wednesday Round Up: Spring Wine Part 2

April is Michigan Wine Month! Last week, we learned about the flavor profiles of spring wines that local wineries recommended (read it here). This week, we’ll hear about the winemakers that created those, as well as some background on the names.

Wednesday Round Up: Spring Wine Part 1

Michigan's Great Southwest is known for fruit, but also for great wine. April is the official "Michigan Wine Month", so in celebration, we're asking wineries what they recommend we drink this spring. Here's what they suggest!

Wednesday Round Up: Getting Fit in SW Michigan Part 2

A few weeks ago, we “rounded up” some of the great group exercise classes in the area to share. As it turns out, there’s a lot of ways to build community through healthy living in Michigan’s Great Southwest! Here’s Part 2 of Getting Fit In SW Michigan.

Tara, a spinning teacher from South Shore Health and Racquet Club, Marydawn, the founder of Maddog 5/1, and Nancy, who teaches at the Benton Harbor-St. Joseph YMCA, all told us a little more about their favorite classes, and why they teach in SW Michigan.

Wednesday Round-Up: Michigan Reads

Every Wednesday, we do a "round-up" post of some of our favorite things in Southwest Michigan. Our Wednesday posts will feature things to do, see, eat, and more in Michigan's Great Southwest!

Read local? Absolutely! We asked Lorraine, Kat, and Stephanie to give us some recommendations for books with a local connection. They had some great suggestions for supporting our Michigan authors.

Kat Boyer, the Interim Director at the Benton Harbor Public Library, Stephanie Masin, the Library Director at the St. Joseph/Maud Preston Palenske Memorial Library, and Lorraine Valk, the Managing Member of Parable Christian Store of St. Joseph all shared their recommended reads with us. Here’s what they suggest!

PurelyMichigan is a staple of State Street in St. Joseph; the store dedicated to the mitten has been at it’s current storefront since 2012. It’s evolving; the owners are new, and the merchandise is paying homage to Michigan vintage in an awesome way.

Wednesday Round-Up: Getting Fit in SW Michigan

Every Wednesday, we do a "round-up" post of some of our favorite things in Southwest Michigan. Our Wednesday posts will feature things to do, see, eat, and more in Michigan's Great Southwest!

Michigan’s Great Southwest has a vibrant community, built in many ways. Here’s a round up of some our favorite group exercises classes in the area, building that community through healthy living. We asked YogaLife, Renaissance Athletic Club, and the Benton Harbor-St. Joseph YMCA for their suggestions.

Kindness is contagious. Spread it.

Put the phone down. Step away from the screen. Enjoy the moment you are in. That mantra resonates with me lately.

Flashback to the Magical Ice Festival, my dad and brother had come downtown for two reasons: 1. See the incredible ice sculptures and 2. Celebrate my brother’s birthday. The timing worked out to where I could join them at The Buck Burgers and Brew for lunch.

Hi, I'm new here...

Starting a new job is a lot like being the new kid in school. No one wants to be the new kid! The whole experience is nerve-wracking. Aside from the transition of organizational leadership, there was a staff to get acquainted with, unfamiliar office space to learn, and serious first impressions to make. The entire time, I was hoping I wasn’t sweating profusely, or that I wouldn’t accidentally drop an f bomb and I really just wanted people to like me.

Tricks AND Treats - More than a dozen Halloween happs in Southwest Michigan!

Who doesn’t love a good trick or treat? I know that I do and it looks like many of our area attractions and businesses do too! Everything from chunking pumpkins to trekking dark trails to dressing as zombies is going on right here. To help make sure you don’t miss out on any of the scary details – I’ve compiled a list of more than a dozen of the hottest (and spookiest!) Halloween events going on in our communities! So check it out… I promise… having all this fun will not give you nightmares.

Five Tips for a Fantastic Wine Tasting Experience

Did you know that Michigan’s Great Southwest is home to almost 30 wineries and tasting rooms as well as acres upon acres of vineyards? In fact, 45% of Michigan’s grapes are grown here in the southwest region of the Mitten State. Although many of us hate to say it, fall is just around the corner, which means the grape harvest season is upon us!

With so many wine tasting opportunities right in our backyard, visiting wineries and tasting rooms in southwest Michigan is a must this fall season. To guide you during your upcoming wine adventures, I’ve put together a list of tips that will help you make the most of your trip.